Sutton: A borough with bright prospects for the young

The London borough of Sutton has always been a place known for its good quality of life, and bright prospects for young people living in the area.

In fact, new figures have helped to demonstrate this even further. Data published by Sutton Council revealed for example that youth unemployment in Sutton has fallen by 31 per cent.

Between November 2012 and November 2013, the number of 16 to 24-year-olds claiming Jobseekers Allowance dropped from 790 to 545. This reduction is greater than the averages for both London and the UK. 

According to the council, the drop in unemployment is due to a number of schemes introduced in the area to get young people working.

The initiatives include targeted outreach work in deprived wards, work with young people who are not in employment, as well as various educational and training initiatives.

Sutton Council has also partnered with a number of different organisations in the area, including local businesses, colleges and jobcentre Plus.

Together, the partners form the Sutton Economic Support Taskforce (SEST), which is designed to help the jobless find work in the borough.

Commenting on the findings, councillor Jayne McCoy, chair of the Housing, Economy and Business Committee, said the borough is "leading the way when it comes to tackling youth unemployment."

She added: "We are determined to give our young people the opportunity to develop a career and the partnerships that we've formed with local organisations have been integral to the success of our programmes. 

"However, there is no room for complacency, and we will continue to support Sutton's young people and ensure that they are trained and ready to enter the workplace and succeed."

A number of careers fairs have also taken place in the borough over the years, while the council also announced it has run its own apprenticeship scheme.

All of these initiatives combined, are reported to have helped young people find jobs in the area. 

Published 29th January, 2014

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